Introduction to Acupuncture

I'd like to address some of the most commonly asked questions:

What is Acupuncture?
For starters, acupuncture is a form of medicine that has been practiced for over 3000 years in China. The first written record of it is found in the 2,500-year-old Huang Di Nei Jing (Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine). This is said to be the oldest medical textbook in the world. This book describes how energy circulates throughout the body in channels called meridians. This energy or life force is called Qi (pronounced "chee"). A person's health is influenced by the flow of Qi in the body, in combination with the universal forces of Yin and Yang. If the flow of Qi is insufficient, unbalanced, or interrupted, Yin and Yang become unbalanced, and illness may occur. Acupuncture is said to restore this balance.

How Does it Feel?
Most simply put, acupuncture is described as the insertion of fine, hair-like needles into certain locations on the body where the meridians pass. These disposable needles are solid and sterile, and nothing is injected into the skin. With the insertion of the needles, you may feel a mosquito-like prick or pinch. Additionally, as you rest during the treatment, you may feel sensations of warmth, numbness, and a tingling or electrical sensation, along with a sense of well-being. These sensations are known as the action of the Qi or de qi, which is the movement of your energy to the troubled area. Usually the treatment lasts about 30 minutes.

What Can Acupuncture Treat?
In China, acupuncture and herbs are used to treat almost every condition. Some of the more common diseases and conditions currently being treated in America are musculoskeletal pain and injuries, gastrointestinal disorders such as reflux and stomachaches, chronic pain and immune system disorders, gynecological problems, menopause, allergies, sinusitis, chronic fatigue, headaches, smoking addiction, and arthritic conditions.

What About Herbal Medicine?
Just as certain acupuncture points have different functions to correct the flow of Qi, so do Chinese herbs. But while acupuncture uses external energies to promote healing, herbal medicine works internally to restore the body to balance. Thus, acupuncture and herbs work together to promote healing. Herbal medicine can treat conditions similar to acupuncture. Both are commonly used not only to treat organ imbalance, but also to build the immune system, restore energy, and promote well-being.

How Do I Get Started?
Concerning getting started with acupuncture, the first thing to do is to find a licensed acupuncturist in your local area. Most states have an acupuncturist licensing board and can verify if your acupuncturist is licensed. In Texas, the Texas State Board of Acupuncture Examiners is the responsible party. Once you've found an acupuncturist, ask that person how long he or she has been practicing and whether he or she feels comfortable treating your condition. Another solution is to call us here at the Center for Health and Healing. We might know of an experienced acupuncturist in your area.

Call 713-660-6620 for an appointment today to determine a treatment plan for you.

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